Tenerife Launches €1.23 Million Restoration Project for Historic Casa del Capitán
The Santa Úrsula council has launched a €1.23 million tender to restore the historic Casa del Capitán in Tenerife, with plans to transform the 19th-century building into an underwater geology interpretation center.
Efforts to preserve the Canary Islands' historical heritage have reached a new milestone with the launch of a tender to restore the Casa del Capitán—also known as Casa de La Vera—in Santa Úrsula, Tenerife. According to the Public Sector Contracting Platform, the local council has officially opened bidding for the construction, technical oversight, and safety management of the project, with a budget of just over €1.23 million.
Recognized as an Asset of Cultural Interest for the past 17 years, the building is a prime example of 19th-century rural architecture. The planned 15-month restoration aims to repair the structure, specifically focusing on its traditional woodwork and distinctive geometric facade. Interested companies have until September 22, 2026, to submit their proposals.
The project is part of a broader municipal strategy to revitalize local culture. Once restored, the building will be transformed into an interpretation center dedicated to underwater geology, with a focus on the unique "La Rapadura" formation. This move reflects a growing trend in Spain: repurposing protected historical buildings for public, educational, and tourism use to ensure they remain vibrant parts of the community rather than falling into disrepair.
Mayor Juan Acosta noted that the tender is the result of extensive administrative efforts, made possible after the Canary Islands government acquired the property and transferred it to the town council. The municipality hopes that by turning the site into a hub for scientific and historical learning, it will become a meaningful part of daily life for residents and visitors alike.